Why Do Monks Wear Hoods?

The hood is an essential part of the garments worn by a monk. The traditional garb (or attire) worn by a monk does not pertain as much to the well-being of the monk's body as to the regulation of his behaviour. They are expected to maintain the virtues of simplicity and innocence even in their clothing.

They always wear small hoods that extend from the head to the neck and the shoulders. These hoods only cover their heads. The hood of a monk resembles a similar hood which is worn by children. The monks who have not returned to the stage of their infancy must repeatedly warmly and vigorously invoke Christ with the following words: Lord, my heart is not exalted, nor are my eyes lifted up. Neither have I walked in great things nor in marvels beyond me. If I thought not humbly but exalted my soul, like a weaned child upon its mother. These words appear in Psalms 131:1-2.